Mary Berry Mexican Chicken Recipe

Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken is a flavorful and colorful dish that brings a taste of Mexico to your table. Combining tender chicken with vibrant spices, beans, tomatoes, and peppers, this one-pot recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

What Is Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken?

This dish features chicken cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce with a variety of traditional Mexican-inspired ingredients such as beans, peppers, and chili. It’s hearty, warming, and packed with bold flavors, making it an ideal dish for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Flavor: Combines smoky spices, zesty tomatoes, and hearty beans.
• Easy One-Pot Dish: Minimal cleanup required.
• Versatile: Perfect with rice, tortillas, or crusty bread.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels and toppings to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: A wholesome meal that’s easy to share.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken

• 4 chicken breasts or 8 chicken thighs (boneless) – Tender and flavorful.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For browning the chicken.
• 1 large onion (chopped) – Adds a savory base.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced) – Infuse the dish with flavor.
• 2 red bell peppers (sliced) – Adds sweetness and color.
• 400g canned chopped tomatoes – Creates a rich sauce.
• 150ml chicken stock – Adds depth to the sauce.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – For smoky flavor.
• 1 tsp ground cumin – Adds earthy warmth.
• 1/2 tsp chili powder – Adjust for desired spice level.
• 400g canned black beans or kidney beans (drained and rinsed) – Adds protein and texture.
• Salt and pepper – To season.
• 1 lime (juice and zest) – Brightens the dish.
• Fresh coriander (chopped) – For garnish.

Optional Toppings

• Sour cream
• Grated cheese
• Sliced avocado

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or casserole dish – For cooking the chicken and sauce.
• Wooden spoon – For stirring.
• Serving dish – To plate the meal.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken on both sides for 4-5 minutes until golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder, and cook for 1 minute to release the spices’ aromas. Add the chopped tomatoes and chicken stock, stirring well to combine.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Beans

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Add the drained beans and stir gently. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Cook the Dish

Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded.

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

Stir in the lime juice and zest, then sprinkle with fresh coriander. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the Mexican chicken hot with rice, tortillas, or a fresh green salad. Add your favorite toppings like sour cream or avocado for an extra burst of flavor.

What Goes Well with Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken

• Steamed Rice: Absorbs the rich tomato sauce.
• Tortillas: Wrap the chicken and sauce for a taco-style meal.
• Nachos: Serve over nachos for a hearty snack.
• Quinoa or Couscous: Healthy alternatives to rice.
• Grilled Corn: Complements the smoky flavors.

Expert Tips for the Best Mexican Chicken

• Marinate the Chicken: Marinate with lime juice and spices beforehand for added flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Add more chili powder or fresh chilies for extra heat.
• Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in thighs provide extra flavor if preferred.
• Don’t Skip the Lime: Adds essential brightness and balances the spices.
• Add Vegetables: Zucchini, mushrooms, or corn can be added for more variety.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or extra beans.
• Cheesy Bake: Top with shredded cheese and bake in the oven until bubbly.
• Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp or white fish.
• Creamy Style: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for richness.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze leftovers in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken Healthier?

• Use Skinless Chicken: Reduces fat content.
• Increase Vegetables: Add more peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
• Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken stock and rinse canned beans thoroughly.
• Limit Oil: Use a non-stick pan to reduce the amount of olive oil.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 6g

FAQs

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts for Mexican Chicken?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative as they remain juicy and flavorful during cooking. Adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.

What Can I Use Instead of Black Beans in Mexican Chicken?

If you don’t have black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas make excellent substitutes. They provide a similar texture and flavor.

How Can I Make Mexican Chicken Less Spicy?

To reduce the spice level, omit or reduce the chili powder and use sweet paprika instead of smoked paprika. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to the sauce for a milder flavor.

Can I Freeze Mexican Chicken?

Yes, Mexican chicken freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Mexican Chicken is a flavorful and versatile recipe that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. With its rich, smoky sauce and hearty ingredients, this dish brings the warmth and excitement of Mexican cuisine to your home. Serve it with your favorite sides and toppings for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

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